Simulate Light Not Polarized Using Jones Formalism

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In summary, the conversation discussed the use of Jones formalism in simulating unpolarized light and the suggestion of using Mueller calculus instead. It was also mentioned that Jones calculus is only applicable to fully polarized light, while Mueller calculus can be used for unpolarized, partially polarized, or incoherent light. The speaker also asked for suggestions on which formalism to use for simulating the behavior of a photon and polarizers, with the opinion that Jones calculus is easier to use for fully polarized light.
  • #1
gandalf215
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Hi,

how i could simulate light not yet polarized with jones formalism?
 
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  • #2
"jones formalism" what is that? Sun light isn't polarized unless its reflected of a surface.
 
  • #4
It looks like the best thing you can do is to assume that unpolarized => equally polarized in the x and y (or whatever coordinates you are using) direction. When you say light is unpolarized you are saying that it is randomly distributed. You can always break this down into polarization in x or y direction (assuming the light is traveling in the z direction), and if the light is truly random, there should be roughly 50% of it polarized in the x direction and 50% polarized in the y.

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  • #5
"Note that Jones calculus is only applicable to light that is already fully polarized. Light which is unpolarized, partially polarized, or incoherent must be treated using Mueller calculus."

Guess you can't, it says you must use mueller calculus.
 
  • #6
Some of you knows better Mueller calculus?

Having to simulate on PC (with java) the behavior of a photon and polarizers,in your opinion which formalism i could take?
 
  • #7
I think Muller calculus can be used to modle polarized and unpolarized light, but it is easyer to use Jones calculus is easyer to used on fully polarized lightthan Mueller calculus.
 

1. What is Jones formalism?

Jones formalism is a mathematical framework used to describe the propagation of polarized light through an optical system. It involves representing light as a vector with two components, which can be manipulated using matrices to model its behavior.

2. What is the difference between polarized and unpolarized light?

Polarized light consists of waves that vibrate in a single plane, while unpolarized light consists of waves that vibrate in multiple planes. This means that polarized light has a defined direction of oscillation, while unpolarized light has no specific direction.

3. How can Jones formalism be used to simulate unpolarized light?

In Jones formalism, unpolarized light can be represented as a mixture of two polarized components with equal amplitudes and perpendicular polarization directions. By calculating the behavior of each component separately and then adding them together, we can simulate the overall behavior of unpolarized light.

4. What are the advantages of using Jones formalism to simulate light?

Jones formalism is a rigorous and widely accepted mathematical method for studying the behavior of polarized light. It allows for precise calculations and predictions of how light will behave in different optical systems, making it a valuable tool for scientists and engineers working in the field of optics.

5. Are there any limitations to using Jones formalism for simulating light?

One limitation of Jones formalism is that it only applies to monochromatic light, meaning light of a single wavelength. It also assumes that the light is coherent, meaning all of the waves have the same frequency and phase. Additionally, Jones formalism does not take into account the effects of scattering or absorption of light, which may be important in certain situations.

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